The Snod Pod
My name is Jon Snodgrass and I'm a mortgage lender with A+ Mortgage based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I'm a conversationalist and promoter at heart. With The Snod Pod, I want to share the conversations that I have with experts in real estate, mortgages, and beyond with you, the audience. Expect interesting stories, valuable lessons, and a dash of humor as we get to know the people behind our local businesses a little better.
Interested in coming onto The Snod Pod or just want to get in touch? Shoot me an email at jsnodgrass@trustaplus.com or give me a call at (414) 840-0956. I look forward to hearing from you!
NMLS - 275681
The Snod Pod
The Entrepreneur's Gamble: Betting It All On A Dream
Mike risked everything 15 years ago when he quit his job, took out a second mortgage on his house, and raised $1.3M to pursue an idea. 15 years later and that idea is known as Secchi software, an employee relationships management tool that helps organizations build better leaders, retain employees, and increase productivity.
In our conversation, Mike and Ken openly share the pressures of managing other people’s money, the challenges of commercializing an idea without a clear roadmap, and the emotional toll of risking financial security for potential business success. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of persistence, learning from mistakes, and the continuous effort required in entrepreneurship.
Watch This Episode On YouTube
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Check out the Secchi Software here
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn
Connect with Ken on LinkedIn
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If you or someone you know needs help with their home mortgage, have them give me a call at
(414) 840-0956 or email me at Jsnodgrass@trustaplus.com
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Key Insights:
- Early Start and Innovation: Mike started his first business informally by working in agriculture, which led him to develop innovative approaches to common tasks, such as eliminating water breaks to increase efficiency.
- Risk Management: He discusses the significant personal financial risks he took, such as investing initial capital from personal savings and securing additional funds through a mortgage to develop his software.
- Learning from Experience: Mike reflects on his experiences in the corporate world and how they shaped his approach to business, stressing the importance of clear processes and efficient management.
- The Importance of Networking: He underlines the role of networking in entrepreneurship, particularly how conversations with peers and potential investors can refine a business idea and secure the necessary support.
- Navigating Funding Challenges: Mike provides insight into the complexities of fundraising, including legal considerations and the emotional burden of using both personal and external funds.
- Adaptability and Resilience: Throughout his narrative, Mike emphasizes adaptability and resilience as crucial traits for any entrepreneur, particularly when facing skepticism or financial hurdles.
- Vision for the Future: Despite the hurdles, Mike remains focused on the future growth of his business, using the lessons learned to adapt and plan strategically.
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Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
0:42 - How To Start a Business
8:33 - How to Raise Money For A Business
16:17 - Creating Leaders In Your Organization
20:39 - The Core Function of a Great Leader
23:36 - Business Partnerships
31:12 - Casting The Vision & Mission
41:41 - Final Question
42:58 - Conclusion
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